“And Moses was content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter.”
This verse is a part of the narrative describing Moses’ time in Midian after fleeing from Egypt. To understand its significance, let’s explore the context and implications of this verse.
Context: Prior to this verse, Moses had fled from Egypt to escape Pharaoh’s wrath after killing an Egyptian who was mistreating an Israelite. He arrived in the land of Midian, where he encountered a group of shepherds who were preventing the daughters of Reuel (also known as Jethro) from drawing water for their flock. Moses intervened and helped the women, earning the favor of Reuel.
Implications and Lessons:
- God’s Providence: The events leading to Moses’ encounter with Reuel and his daughter Zipporah highlight God’s providential guidance. It was not a coincidence that Moses ended up in Midian and found favor with Reuel. God was orchestrating events behind the scenes to prepare Moses for his future role as the deliverer of the Israelites.
- Contentment and Relationships: The verse states that “Moses was content to dwell with the man.” Despite his prestigious background in Egypt, Moses was willing to humbly live with and learn from Reuel, who was a priest of Midian. This demonstrates Moses’ contentment and his willingness to adapt to a different way of life.
- Furthermore, Moses’ relationship with Zipporah, Reuel’s daughter, becomes significant in the subsequent verses. Moses eventually marries Zipporah and has two sons with her. This union not only signifies Moses’ integration into the community but also plays a role in later events when Moses receives his divine calling.
- Preparation and Transition: Moses spent approximately forty years in Midian before being called by God to return to Egypt and confront Pharaoh. During this period, Moses learned valuable skills and gained experience as a shepherd under the guidance of Reuel. This time of preparation and transition was crucial for shaping Moses’ character, deepening his dependence on God, and equipping him for the task ahead.
Application:
- As we reflect on Exodus 2:21, we can draw several practical lessons:
- Trust in God’s Providence: Just as God guided Moses in Midian, we can trust that He is working in our lives, even during times of transition or uncertainty.
- Cultivate Contentment: Moses’ contentment with his circumstances encourages us to find contentment in whatever situation we are in, trusting that God has a purpose and plan for our lives.
- Embrace Preparation: Often, God uses seasons of preparation to equip us for future challenges and opportunities. We should embrace these times and allow God to shape us for His purposes.
- Value Relationships: Moses’ relationship with Reuel and Zipporah reminds us of the importance of building healthy relationships and learning from others, even when they are different from us.
In conclusion, Exodus 2:21 highlights God’s providence, Moses’ contentment, and the significance of relationships during his time in Midian. It teaches us to trust God’s guidance, find contentment in every circumstance, embrace seasons of preparation, and value relationships as we seek to fulfill God’s purpose in our lives.
